Villa's kids warmed up for the FA Youth Cup clash against Chelsea with a hard fought 1-0 victory against Fulham.

Barry Bannan was the matchwinner as he struck just before half-time against the Londoners.

The victory keeps Villa in pole position at the top of the table. Coach Tony McAndrew told www.avfc.co.uk: "This was a massive game for us in terms of the league campaign and the boys did well.

"We told them to forget about the Chelsea game and concentrate on Fulham - they did just that and produced a very good performance."

Back Our FA Youth Cup Charge

Get behind the Young Lions as Villa bid for a third FA Youth Cup Final appearance in seven years.

Drawing 1-1 with Chelsea from the first leg at Stamford Bridge, Villa entertain the Londoners on Wednesday March 19 (ko 7pm)

Villa Park admission is free and we're also producing a limited edition eight-page programme free of charge on a first come first served basis.

Coach Tony McAndrew is urging supporters to back his young charges and told www.avfc.co.uk: "This is a massive game for the lads and they've done well to get to this stage of the competition.

"The further you progress in the FA Youth Cup, the more experience you gain and playing in front of a big Villa Park crowd would certainly be good for the players.

"The first-leg at Chelsea was an exciting game - particularly in the second-half - and we've got it all to play for in the return."

Stay tuned to www.avfc.co.uk and AVTV for the build-up and action.